It would be a good question to know for us who are waiting for our visas, we where told to ship.. but lets here from those who have already done either!
My father is British, retired and married to a south African women and he basically cant bring his wife back on his pension because of the current rules. it was done to stop certain groups of people but basically stopped almost everyone.... typical
There is normally 1 or 2 176's but the main bulk wont start until they have finished 175 which has moved up to june 09 (ish) but the good new is that there are not that many 175 application in 2010 and the following years.
Also I got this from another website forum. It seems its not impossible to apply but get some professional advise first.
"1. Do not make the application to DIAC without assistance. It is harder to overcome a s501 refusal than prevent one in the first place.
2. Do NOT apply for evisitor/ETA."
it does say if your sentenced to 12 months or more. But you only served 6 so its best to ask immigration first or speak to a immigration specialist in your country.